Remembering Alex Eldreth

On Friday, November 24 Autism Delaware’s longtime Policy & Community Outreach Director, Alex Eldreth, passed away at his home in Newark.

While Alex did not want a memorial, we will hold a remembrance to honor his legacy and share stories of how that legacy will go forward. This will be held on Monday, December 11, from 4:30 – 6:30 at Easter Seals (61 Corporate Cir, New Castle, DE). All are welcome. RSVP requested to teresa.avery@delautism.org.

As we mourn his loss, we’d like to share this remembrance from his friend and colleague, Carla Koss — Autism Delaware’s Communications Coordinator.

“Give Alex Eldreth a cup of coffee, and he’d wax wise on anything, from the reason he’s a vegan to his newest tat. But ask Alex about his advocacy work, and his excitement level was a joy to behold. He was like a kid at Christmas when talking about new opportunities to advocate on behalf of people in need. And he didn’t just talk about it; he did something about it:

When a child needed a home, Alex fostered that child.

When someone with mental-health or LGBTQ issues needed help, Alex spoke on their behalf—even if no one was willing to listen.

When someone with multiple sclerosis needed a program to improve her quality of life, Alex created one—and then helped her get to it.

And when Delaware’s families affected by autism needed a focus, Alex directed them until their needs were addressed in Dover.

And we were all at the mercy of his practical jokes.

Alex Eldreth threw everything he had at life. In fact, he put so much thought and effort into everything he did that, too soon, his energy ran out. Alex died the day after Thanksgiving. In the days since, we at Autism Delaware have struggled with the loss, but we’re intent on keeping our hearts and minds open. And we’re thankful that Alex showed us how.”